# What is an IDIQ contract? An IDIQ (indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity) contract lets an agency order an unknown quantity of supplies or services within stated minimum and maximum limits over a fixed period, through task or delivery orders. Single-award IDIQs go to one contractor; multiple-award IDIQs go to several, who then compete for each order under the fair opportunity rules in FAR 16.505. Yes.Checked on 2026-11-12.Official source: [FAR 16.504](https://www.acquisition.gov/far/16.504) | Term | IDIQ contract | | --- | --- | | Source | FAR 16.504 | ## IDIQ contract meaning An IDIQ (indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity) contract lets an agency order an unknown quantity of supplies or services within stated minimum and maximum limits over a fixed period, through task or delivery orders.Single-award IDIQs go to one contractor; multiple-award IDIQs go to several, who then compete for each order under the fair opportunity rules in FAR 16.505. The contract states a guaranteed minimum, which the government must order, and a maximum it cannot exceed. Governmentwide acquisition contracts (GWACs), the GSA Multiple Award Schedule and most agency-wide service vehicles are IDIQs, so most federal service work is ordered through one. ## Questions What is the difference between an IDIQ and a task order?The IDIQ is the umbrella contract; task orders (services) and delivery orders (supplies) are the individual purchases placed under it.Do IDIQs show up in award data?Yes. USAspending lists the IDIQ itself (an IDV) and each order placed under it, linked by the parent award ID. ## Related - [Contract lookup](https://samgovapi.io/contract-lookup) - [Glossary](https://samgovapi.io/glossary)Updated 2026-11-12. Sources checked 2026-11-12.Independent. Not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by GSA, SAM.gov or any U.S. government agency. Registering in SAM.gov is free at sam.gov.

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